These golden fried dough bites are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside, making them a delicious snack or side dish. Perfectly versatile, they can be enjoyed sweet or savory!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- Flour: 500 grams (4 cups)
- Water: 300 milliliters (1 1/4 cups), slightly warm
- Honey or Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1/2 tablespoon
- Dry Yeast: 1 tablespoon (7 grams)
- Hot Water: For activating the yeast
- Oil: For frying
Directions:
Activate the Yeast:
- In a small bowl, combine the dry yeast with a small amount of hot water and 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy to ensure the yeast is active.
Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add the activated yeast mixture and slightly warm water.
- Stir until the dough begins to come together.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Rest the Dough:
- Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Shape and Fry:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air.
- Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls, twists, or flat discs as desired.
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
- Fry the dough pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Serve:
- Serve the fried dough bites warm, paired with sweet or savory accompaniments.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve with honey or chocolate sauce for a sweet treat.
- Sprinkle with salt and pair with dips like marinara, garlic aioli, or cheese sauce.
- Serve with soups or stews as a comforting side dish.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or fruit compote for breakfast.
- Toss in cinnamon sugar for a fun dessert option.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 175°C or 350°F) to achieve a crispy exterior without soaking in excess oil.
- Use a slotted spoon to flip and remove the dough bites for even cooking.
- Test one piece of dough before frying the rest to ensure the oil is hot enough.
- Don’t over-knead after the first rise to retain airiness in the dough.
- If the dough sticks while shaping, lightly flour your hands and surface.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Provides energy from carbohydrates.
- Yeast adds B vitamins and enhances flavor.
- Honey adds natural sweetness and nutrients.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten.
- Suitable for vegetarians.
- Can be made dairy-free by ensuring no dairy-based frying oils or accompaniments are used.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Freeze for up to 1 month; thaw and reheat before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Simple ingredients and easy preparation.
- Perfect for sweet or savory pairings.
- Light and fluffy texture with a crispy exterior.
- Great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a quick snack.
Conclusion:
Golden fried dough bites are a crowd-pleasing treat that can be customized to suit any occasion. With their fluffy texture and versatility, they’re a fun and satisfying addition to any meal or snack time. Try them today and enjoy the timeless delight of freshly fried dough!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I bake the dough instead of frying?
Yes, bake the shaped dough at 200°C (400°F) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Can I use instant yeast instead of dry yeast?
Yes, instant yeast can be mixed directly with the dry ingredients without activation.
3. How do I keep the fried dough warm for serving?
Place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (90°C) oven while frying the remaining batches.
4. Can I add spices or herbs to the dough?
Absolutely! Add garlic powder, Italian herbs, or cinnamon for added flavor.
5. What oil is best for frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil work best.
6. How do I prevent the dough from absorbing too much oil?
Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (around 175°C or 350°F) and don’t overcrowd the pan.
7. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough after the first rise for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and frying.
8. What toppings work best for sweet versions?
Powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, honey, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream pair beautifully.
9. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. You can also use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
10. How do I know the dough is properly kneaded?
The dough should feel smooth and elastic, and when pressed lightly, it should spring back.